Light: Full sun to light shade; in Phoenix, provide light afternoon shade, especially for young or newly planted specimens. Acclimate gradually to direct sun.
Water: Low water; water deeply and allow the root zone to dry completely before watering again. Established plants may need supplemental water every 3–4 weeks during prolonged summer drought. Keep nearly dry in winter.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential; use gritty, mineral-rich cactus soil. Plant on a raised mound where native soil is compacted or slow-draining.
Mature size: Typically 3–6 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide; very old specimens may approach 10 feet tall.
Bloom: Typically late spring through summer once mature; young plants may take many years to flower.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen succulent.
Growth rate: Slow.